Israel “Izzy” Abanikanda, University of Pittsburgh and former Abraham Lincoln High School (Brooklyn) running back, enjoyed a historic day, rushing for 320 yards and six touchdowns in the Panthers’ 45-22 homecoming victory over Virginia Tech on Saturday.
For his stellar efforts, Abanikanda picked up a slew of honors, including the FBS National Player of the Week and Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Running Back of the Week accolades, and The Doak Walker Award (presented annually to the nation’s premier college running back) recognized him for his legendary performance.
Abanikanda has amassed 830 yards and 12 TDs in six games so far this campaign.
Abanikanda is no stranger to high honors, as he garnered the New York State football Gatorade Player of the Year award in 2019. That season, he rushed for 1,350 yards and 20 touchdowns on just 136 touches as a senior as he guided the Railsplitters to the PSAL Championship Conference semifinals.
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— Jerry Del Priore
Brooklyn Sports World/NY NJ Sports World 